Governor Cuomo Announces $50 Million Available for Alternative Transportation Projects

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that applications are now available for $50 million in federal funding for a variety of alternative transportation projects, including the construction of bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

Last month, we awarded $67 million in funding that will help modernize and enhance New Yorks transportation infrastructure and improve safety for New Yorkers and visitors, Governor Cuomo said. The funding we are announcing today will build on those efforts by supporting new recreational and tourism opportunities across the state. We are looking for projects that can grow local economies and create jobs, while also contributing to cleaner and more resilient communities for years to come.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Joan McDonald said, The community improvement opportunities supported through this competitive funding solicitation will promote healthy transportation alternatives, improve access to and the safety of non-motorized transportation facilities and transform communities throughout the State. Thanks to Governor Cuomos leadership, we are helping regional economies by providing a variety of transportation options that are in harmony with local visions.

The Transportation Alternatives Program projects will be selected through a competitive solicitation process and rated on established criteria that include environmental enhancement to and for the transportation system; connectivity to an existing transportation system; encouragement of smart growth; impact on local or regional economies; availability of matching funds; and level of community support.

Eligible project activities include:

On-road and off-road trail facilities for pedestrians, bicyclists and other non-motorized forms of transportation;

Infrastructure-related projects and systems that will provide safe routes for non-drivers, including children, older adults, and individuals with disabilities, to access daily needs;

Community improvement activities, including improving roadway safety in transportation rights-of-way and erosion control; and

Environmental mitigation activity, including pollution prevention and abatement activities and highway storm water drainage control to prevent flooding.

The funding for these projects is provided by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and administered by NYSDOT. Up to 80 percent of the proposed project costs will be provided to successful applicants. Project sponsors are responsible for securing the remaining project funding.

NYSDOT will provide technical assistance and required training for potential applicants through a series of workshops statewide. The workshops will address information about this new funding opportunity, an explanation of application requisites and detail the requirements needed to ensure all federally-aided projects are developed, designed and constructed in accordance with federal requirements.

The tentative deadline for applications is June 11. Additional information about the program, including the application and guidebook; technical assistance and regional workshops; and federal project requirements are available at https://www.dot.ny.gov/tap.

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said, Investing in alternative transportation projects, like bike paths and greenways, is a smart use of federal dollars that boosts regional tourism, spurs local economies and improves air quality in New York communities. This additional pot of funding will go a long way in making New Yorks transportation system safer and more accessible across the state.

Congresswoman Nita Lowey said, Recreation and tourism create jobs and drive economic growth in the Lower Hudson Valley. With this new federal investment, communities in our region now have access to additional funds that can improve our transportation system for residents and tourists alike, making our communities safer and strengthening our economy.

Congressman Jerrold Nadler said, As the most senior Northeastern Member of Congress on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am proud that we were able to pass the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act which made these federal funds possible. This $50 million will create local jobs and increase the safety and availability of a wide range of transportation options throughout New York. Creating more ways for cyclists and pedestrians to travel safely will improve our environment and keep more cars off our already congested roads. I will continue to work with Governor Cuomo to fight for the federal funding for transportation projects that will benefit New York.

Congressman Tim Bishop said, It is a win any time we can support safer transportation, minimize its impact on the environment, and support the tourism and recreation economy in Suffolk County. I look forward to the state's selection of these alternative transportation projects."

Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney said, Investing in our infrastructure will create jobs and grow our local economy while helping my neighbors and our visitors to safely enjoy the scenic Hudson Valley. Because of the support of Governor Cuomo and Commissioner McDonald, we can continue to partner together to get results that make a difference for folks in the Hudson Valley.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

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